Canyon Lake resident Dee Dee Davis passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024. She was 98.
Davis was among the early homeowners in the community, purchasing a lot in 1970, just two years after the development of Canyon Lake started.
Davis is credited with coining the phrase, “A little bit of paradise,” to describe Canyon Lake. Until late 2024, the iconic phrase was featured on the city’s seal on display in the Council Chamber.
Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1926, Davis lived an extraordinary life filled with love, community, and adventure.
Davis began her career at the age of 16 as a secretary for the Office of Foreign Affairs at the American Embassy in Rio De Janeiro. In 1943, she worked as a stewardess for Pan-American Airways.
At the age of 18, Davis embarked on a life-changing journey to the United States. She traveled from Brazil to New York on a merchant ship, where she met her future first husband.
In 1954, Davis married her second husband, Mike Davis, who was her boss at McDonnell Douglas. They were together for 57 years.
In the 60s, during the Vietnam War, Davis worked at General Telephone and later for Verizon for 25 years.
In 1970, the Davises purchased a lot in Canyon Lake. They built a home on the lot in 1976. During that time, they would stay at the campground and participate in community events.
Davis had a passion for dancing and was a member of the Canyon Lake Twirlers square dance group. Davis also taught cotillion to young kids. She danced well into her 90s.
An avid traveler, Davis was a member of the Canyon Lake Roadrunners travel club. Her favorite way to explore the world was by cruise ship. Davis completed 61 cruises during her lifetime, visiting every continent except Australia.
In the late 70s, Davis contributed articles to the The Friday Flyer.
In 1983, Davis conspired with Dotty Libring to set up a blind date with her daughter, Diane, and Dotty’s son, Steve. Forty-two years later, Diane and Steve have four children and six grandchildren with a seventh on the way. Much to her delight, the Librings continue her legacy in Canyon Lake.
Davis is survived by her two daughters, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
Davis once said that being an American was the best part of her life. “If it wasn’t for America, I would have
been lost.”
